Cairo, 14 February 2024 – The Ministry of Health and Population, Government of Canada, and UNDP Egypt inaugurated a new CT Scanning Unit at the Imbaba General Hospital with the attendance of the Minister of Health and Population HE Dr. Khaled Abdel Ghaffar, Canadian Ambassador to Egypt, Louis Dumas and UNDP Egypt Resident Representative Alessandro Fracassetti.

During the visit, Dr. Abdel Ghaffar emphasized his commitment to comprehensive patient care across specialized departments. Highlighting the significance of the Canadian government's contribution, Dr. Abdel Ghaffar noted that Imbaba General Hospital is among three hospitals benefitting from the provision of advanced CT scanners, alongside Menouf General and Kafr El-Zayat General Hospitals. The newly installed CT unit boasts cutting-edge technology, including artificial intelligence capabilities for both regular and dye-enhanced examinations, as well as an automatic injector, and streamlined image processing.

Ambassador Louis Dumas expressed his delight at Canada's ongoing support for Egypt's healthcare system, reaffirming Canada's commitment to fostering health equity and strengthening bilateral relations. He noted, “Today marks a significant milestone in our shared commitment to support Egypt’s national plan to advance access to healthcare. As Ambassador of Canada, it is an honor to be here alongside our valued partners, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Ministry of Health and Population.  Canada is very pleased to be supporting Egypt with key technologies such as CT-Scanners and mobile X-Rays. Today one CT-Scanner has been delivered to Imbaba General Hospital. We’re building on the success of 2021, were one CT-scanner was installed at the Abbasseya Chest Hospital and benefited over 42,000 patients, since then. With these state-of-the-art scanners, we are not just delivering technology; we are helping to deliver hope and healing to communities in need. Canada remains steadfast in our support to Egypt and initiatives that prioritize health equity and ensure that no one is left behind." 

UNDP Egypt Resident Representative Alessandro Fracassetti highlighted that the joint efforts are key to bolstering essential healthcare services across Egypt. “We are pleased to partner with the Ministry of Health and Population and the Government of Canada. Together, we aim to enhance essential healthcare services, support the most vulnerable groups in accessing health in Egypt. Through our joint project, we have successfully procured and installed three high-end CT scanners at key healthcare facilities, including those in the governorates of Mounfia and Kafr El Zayat. The CT Scanning Unit at Imbaba Hospital is already benefitting thousands of patients, providing free-of-charge services. This includes early diagnosis, timely and accurate treatment decisions, and support for recovery.” 

The new CT Scanning Unit is equipped with the latest CT scanning equipment funded by the Government of Canada through the activities of the “Support to Egypt for COVID-19 Screening and Testing Capacity” project, implemented by UNDP in cooperation with the MoHP and stands as a testament to the fruitful collaboration between Egypt, Canada, and UNDP, embodying the shared commitment to leaving no one behind.